Revelation Now :
Daily Devotional Bible Studies in Revelation
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The Ephesians Lost Their First Love : Day 7 
"To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lamp stands: I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love." (Revelation 2.1-4)
City of Ephesus
"Ephesus" was a large city in ancient times with a population of about a quarter of a million people. It was the capital of Asia Minor and an important centre of land and sea trade. Along with Alexandria and Antioch in Syria, it was one of the three most influential cities in the eastern part of the Roman empire. The other six churches to which letters were sent were situated roughly in an arc radiating from it. The magnificent temple in "Ephesus" was dedicated to Artemis, and described as one of the ancient wonders of the world. It was also a major centre for the manufacture of images of its goddess. John spent a great deal of his ministry in Ephesus and knew its shortcomings well. (1).
First Love
The church at Ephesus may have been important, but it had lost its first love. First love between a man and woman is very special. In the same way, new believers rejoice at their new found love of Jesus. But "you have forsaken your first love," you have lost the thrill.
A large and proud church had developed in Ephesus. Jesus' message reminds them that he alone is the head of the body of believers. Jesus "walks among the seven golden lamp stands" and holds "the seven stars in his right hand." These are marks of his power and authority over the leaders and people of the seven churches.
Lamp Stand
Because the Ephesians had forsaken their first love, their lamp stand was to be removed from its place. The church would cease to be a witness. Just as the candlestick in the temple gave light for the priests, so the churches were to give light to their surrounding communities. Jesus warned them that their lights could go out. Christians need to maintain their first love and point people toward God. In the first steps of your Christian life, you may have been overwhelmed with joy. Is this enthusiasm abating? Do you still love God with the same fervour as when you were a new Christian?
Meditation
Do you still have that wonderful first love for your Saviour?
Prayer
"I love you, Lord. And I lift my voice. To worship you, O my soul, rejoice." (2)
Notes
(1) see http://sailturkey.com/panoramas/ephesus/streets.html (2)
"The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place."
